Mean pulmonary venous pressure (= LAP = [[2023-NOV-GM#Pulmonary capillary wedge position and pressure| Wedge Pressure]]) = 5mmHg.

Pulmonary capillary wedge position and pressure (PCWP)
#2023GM-NOV/Q02
Basic Science
Source
Pressure transduced catheter is introduced into the femoral or jugular vein.
- Then advanced through SVC/ IVC -> right atrium -> Right ventricle -> Pulmonary artery -> Left or right branch PA.
- Position can be confirmed by the pressure tracing in each position.
- Inflation of the balloon blocks off the branch PA -> after a few seconds, pressure distal to the balloon approximates left atrial pressure.
Clinical use
- Diagnosis of severity of left ventricular failure
- quantify degree of mitral valve stenosis
- AS, AR, MR also ⬆ LA Pressure
- Measurement of cardiac output by thermodilution.
- Calculation of pulmonary vascular resistance (based on measurement of pulmonary blood flow, pulmonary artery pressure and PCWP)
- Values: Pulmonary oedema likely above PCWP > 20mmHg.